Display children's artwork on the wall, not on the windows. Windows are for natural light to come through so the children can see what they are doing.
Use coloured paper or card to mount the artwork.
Regularly change the artwork, so the children can appreciate their surroundings.
Place pictures or photographs (covered with contact or laminate) on the wall and at a height that allows children to view them.

The interior space

Try not to clutter play spaces as this can overstimulate children.
Place tablecloths on the tables for mealtimes, with vases of flowers for children to appreciate and enjoy.
Use tablecloths to reduce loud noises from blocks and puzzle pieces being used. You can also use tablecloths at mealtimes to soak up liquid spills.
Plant flowers, herbs and plants with a pleasant aroma and arrange them in pots (inside and outside) for the children to enjoy. If your service has no grass for children to feel, smell and sit on, then plant some in large pots and arrange them so children can sit on the pot plants to experience the grass.
Make time to think about the equipment and material and how you might arrange them to create an aesthetically pleasing environment for learning.

Creating an aesthetically pleasing learning environment

An aesthetically pleasing environment provides choices, space, time, variety and ownership, (soft spaces, comfortable spaces, quiet places).

Below are some ideas you could use in various areas of the childcare centre.

In the playroom	In the outdoor play spaces	Bathroom / Toilet / Change mat
plants and flowers natural materials displays of interesting pictures photographs general interest books places of ownership private spaces hidey spaces places for children to feel they are part of a group different textures open materials flexibility elevation and height.	wind chimes various surfaces - hard and soft plants and flowers natural materials.	soft music mobiles photographs pictures wind chimes.

The following activity can be based on an existing centre, or used to create a plan.

Use the following table to identify items you already have or might include.

Once you have completed your list, ask yourself the following questions to check you have thought of everything.